It’s 4th of July weekend and many cities and municipalities are having their fireworks displays. The weekend will be filled with picnics and parties too. All that excitement adds up to a lot of fun – but it also represents a lot of potential dangers for your dog.
The most common dog owner complaint during the 4th of July weekend is their dog’s reaction to fireworks. With a dog’s sensitive ears and eyes it’s no wonder that your dog gets anxious and fearful during the Fourth of July weekend. Even it you have addressed loud noises during your gun dog training This Holiday can be troublesome to your dog. The combination of loud noises and bright lights can scare dogs that don’t normally have a history of noise phobias and some of the issues can be caused by your actions.
Some dogs will exhibit signs of fear that can include pacing, panting, trembling, salivating, trying to escape and/or barking. If you notice this in your dog here are some things that you should do or not do during this Holiday:
- Don’t take your dog to the fireworks. Make sure he or she is calm at home. Or stay home with your dog during the fireworks. Keep your dog confined in a comfortable location if possible.
- Don’t try too hard to reassure your dog during a fearful event with petting, soothing words, or extra attention as this can sometimes exacerbate the problem by reinforcing your dog’s fearful response.
- Some dogs are very sensitive to peoples’ moods, so they may be influenced by the way that you react to the noise. It is best to act happy and upbeat or to redirect your dog’s attention to some absorbing activity.
- If you must leave your dog alone, consider what would make your dog most comfortable. Bring your dog indoors. Would your dog feel safest in a crate? Turn on the radio/television/fan/air conditioner as (“white noise”). Make sure you provide a comfortable hiding place or “safe place” in case your dog is scared during the fireworks.
These tips were provided by Dr. Jon, from Pet Palace.
So before the fireworks, try to anticipate your dog’s exposure to noises and avoid such exposure, if possible. Talk to your pet in a light, cheerful tone that sends a message that the storm is no big deal. Encourage your dog to find a quiet restful place to wait out the noise. Remember your dog will key off of your actions so don’t make a big deal out of the situation. Even though your dog will become anxious, talk calmly, act normal and everything should be OK.
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